Christel Mae Lee

Christel Mae Lee, age 90, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025. She was born on November 18, 1934, in Wagoner, Oklahoma, to William Buford Clark and Gladys Fay Kilgore, and moved with her family to Merced, California, in 1942. Christel graduated from Merced High School in 1953.

In March of 1954, Christel married Durward Lee, beginning a loving marriage that carried them through a life of service, travel, and devotion. As a military family, they lived in Frankfurt, Germany; Denver, Colorado; and Sacramento, California, before returning to Merced. Wherever they went, Christel created a home filled with warmth, stability, and love.

Christel had a passion for education and spent 17 years as an elementary school teacher in the Atwater School District. She took great pride in her work, cherishing the time she spent helping children learn, grow, and discover their potential. Her gentle guidance and heartfelt dedication left a lasting impact on countless students.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Christel served faithfully in many callings—especially those focused on teaching and nurturing children. Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life and shaped the compassion, patience, and kindness she offered to others.

During her years of teaching and her active involvement in church, Christel made many dear friends who enriched her life and cherished her companionship.

In her free time, Christel found great joy tending to her flower garden and vegetable beds. She enjoyed spending time outside in the yard, caring for the spaces she created. She also volunteered at Merced Community Medical Center, first in the pediatric ward, where she sat with children and offered comfort through play and companionship. Later, she discovered a special talent for creating floral arrangements, crafting them in her garage and donating them to be sold in the hospital gift shop. This creative work became a personal commitment and a meaningful way she served the community she loved.

Christel is survived by her son Steven, of Merced; her daughter Lori and son-in-law David, of San Bruno; her sisters Lucy Merryman, Hazel Perez, and Ruth Cooper; and her half-brother Danny Koehn. She will be remembered for her gentle strength, her generous spirit, and the enduring love she shared with family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.

The family asks that donations be made to your local food bank in lieu of flowers. Graveside services will be held at a later date.